Delrico Gibson: Strings of Gratitude

On Feb. 29, 2020, just weeks after opening his family’s new restaurant, a devastating kitchen explosion engulfed artist Delrico Gibson in flames, resulting in severe burns to most of his body. Gibson’s burns were so catastrophic that they literally reshaped the structure of his bones and fused his fingers together.

Gibson’s 2023 AEIVA exhibition, "Strings of Gratitude," weaves a story of survival and represents the artist’s deep appreciation for the health care professionals who saved his life. Gibson describes his works as "symmetric abstract design string art." Until recently, it was believed he might never make art again.

After months of treatment, UAB surgeons, doctors, therapists and caregivers have helped Gibson regain the dexterity needed to create his intricately vivid designs. Composed primarily of re-purposed wood, nails and wound yarn, each work of art on display at AEIVA represents a specific person who played a vital role in the artist’s recovery journey.

AEIVA is hosting Delrico Gibson’s first solo museum exhibition from June 9 to Aug. 12.